Two of our three underdog picks came through last night for a 2-1 record, but +1.75 units thanks to the dogs! Let’s ride this success into another busy night in the NHL.
New Jersey Devils @ Atlanta Thrashers
The Devils are back after their tough last minute loss to the Senators the other night, where they were not able to salvage even a point. That loss makes this pretty much a must win game for them and it’s one they should win against a struggling Thrashers team. Atlanta has won their last two games, but they needed extra time to win each of them and they were not against grade A clubs (Panthers, Hurricanes). Before that the Thrashers had won just 2 of the previous 13 games and I am not convinced that they are a better team than this, especially with Byfuglien possibly (game-time decision) out of the lineup tonight. The Devils aren’t just going to roll over and die after a tough loss to one of the worst teams in the league. This team should still believe they have a shot at the playoffs and that shot starts by defeating the Thrashers tonight.
My Pick: New Jersey Devils -135
Minnesota Wild @ Dallas Stars
The Wild got lit up last night in Nashville, which dropped them to 11th in the West, but still just 2 points back of 8th and more importantly 3 points back of the Stars. The Wild were in a similar situation a week ago when they lost to the Islanders, but bounced back the next night to beat the Rangers and stay in the playoff hunt. I expect nothing less from them tonight. This is likely one of the last games they will have to play without their captain and each player will dig deep to get the win for him so they are still in the running when he returns. The Wild are heading to Vancouver and San Jose next, so they should know that points here are crucial. The Stars have found their game of late obtaining 12 of a possible 14 points in their last 7 games to erase their previous slump. The Wild are fairly big dogs tonight and I think there is value taking them in this one because I feel it could go either way. The Wild have been solid in the road this season, while the Stars have also won 3 more home games than they have lost.
My Pick: Minnesota Wild +145
Anaheim Ducks @ Colorado Avalanche
The Ducks get to head into Colorado at the perfect time of year to take on the lowly, struggling Avalanche. The Avs have won only once in their last 17 games and are making a push for the bottom of the standings. I do not expect tonight to be any different than 16 of their previous 17 games as the Avs should be able to add another loss to their record. Anaheim has won 4 of their last 5 games and are directly in the playoff hunt only two points out of 8th. They can not afford to take the Avs lightly tonight and I don’t expect they will.
My Pick: Anaheim Ducks -130
Leave your own picks in the comments!
Fan Duel Tips
Holtby is the confirmed starter for the Capitals tonight and he is a great goaltender choice in FanDuel Fantasy Hockey. He only costs $3800 and should get the W tonight.
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Written by: Niko
Tagged with: Anaheim Ducks • Atlanta Thrashers • Colorado Avalanche • Dallas Stars • Minnesota Wild • New Jersey Devils